The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has shared the health requirements for Hajj vaccinations for the 2025 season to keep pilgrims safe and healthy. These measures aim to help pilgrims perform their duties safely while reducing the risk of infection.
MoPH explained that all pilgrims should take the meningococcal vaccine (quadrivalent ACYW-135). People at high risk, such as those over 65 years of age, pregnant women, those with heart or lung disease, kidney failure, certain blood disorders (such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia), and those with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases such as neurological diseases, are required to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended for everyone over 18 years of age, along with the seasonal flu vaccine.
To prove vaccination against COVID-19, individuals must have received at least one dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season, completed primary doses (two or more doses between 2021 and 2023), or recovered from COVID-19 infection in 2024.
The Ministry recommends influenza vaccines and optional vaccines such as the pneumococcal vaccine for those over 65 years of age and those aged 18-64 with chronic diseases. The RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine is recommended for those over 60 years of age.
All Hajj vaccines are available at primary health centers in Qatar. The Ministry recommends taking the required vaccines at least 10 days before traveling to Saudi Arabia. The meningococcal vaccine is still mandatory for Umrah performers and visitors.
Dr. Hamad Eid Al-Rumaihi, Director of Health Protection, urged pilgrims to follow health guidelines and get vaccinated to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. He advised those with chronic illnesses to consult their doctors before traveling and ensure that they have enough medication for the entire journey.
The ministry is working with the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and the Qatar Red Crescent to provide health guidance to pilgrims. For more information, call the Unified Health Sector on 16000 for the Hajj Health Guide or visit the MoPH website.
